Monday November 13, 2017 at 3:04pm Age: 126 days
Category: High School, District

MVHS CHORUS STUDENT RECOGNIZED BY NYSSMA

CONGRATULATIONS to senior Matthew Goetz, selected by the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) as an alternate for the organization’s prestigious, state-wide music festival.
—The NYSSMA All-State journey...Matthew, a chorus and band member, was one of many at MVHS – and one of thousands across New York – to audition for the state-level All-State competition last May. On the trombone, he scored an impressive 97, but his voice solo earned him a perfect 100 score and All-State alternate status.

Traditionally, there are more candidates with scores of 100 than can be accommodated by the limited size of the All-State groups. However, every student who receives a score of 100 is guaranteed alternate status, and stands to be selected to participate in the festival, if/as space becomes available.

“I was very encouraged when I learned I was selected. I put in a lot of work on my own to prepare for that audition, so it felt good! It made me realize my own potential,” Matthew said.

—Future plans...Far from resting on his All-State achievement, Matthew decided to push himself further and began taking lessons with a private voice coach. He is eyeing SUNY Potsdam to pursue a degree in music, and a career as a music teacher, certified to teach chorus and band. After he is academically accepted into the college of his choice, Matthew will have to audition to enter the college’s music school. He is already working with this voice instructor to boost his chances.

—"There's no luck. Just hard work."Matthew’s participation in chorus wasn’t always consistent. This is the first time he has stuck with it two years in a row. “Sometimes I feel like I have a lot of catching up to do,” he said. But then he reminds himself of a lesson learned: “It’s all on your own shoulders. If you put in the work, you’ll get the results. There’s no luck. Just hard work. But it’s a great feeling when reach your goals.”

—Opportunities and inspiration...Matthew credits his high school music teachers and program with offering many options and opportunities for students to explore their musical interests and their talent. He credits a former band peer, Class of 2017 Jasmine Lites, for inspiring him to pursue music teaching.